'Your mobile number linked to trafficking': Retired judge loses over Rs 1 crore in 'digital arrest' scam in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD: A retired district judge fell prey to the "digital arrest" scam and lost more than Rs 1 crore, police said on Monday.The cybercriminals allegedly targeted the 69-year-old about a week ago, claiming his mobile number was linked to women trafficking and other criminal activities.The victim, a resident of Malkagjri, transferred over Rs 1 crore to the scammers. Realising he had been duped, he filed a complaint three days ago, and an investigation is currently underway. When asked how the victim fell prey despite being a retired judge, police said that victims often succumb to the fear generated by the fraudsters’ threats.In a digital arrest scam, fraudsters pose as law enforcement officials to deceive their victims. They intimidate individuals by falsely accusing them of illegal activities and then demand money, pressuring them to pay.(With agency inputs)